IBS / Digestive Problems

What is IBS?

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common gut disorder which affects the digestive system, particularly the large intestine. It is thought to affect between 12-30% and is one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders. IBS is often diagnosed when the discomfort, inconvenience and pain cannot be explained by any underlying disease or condition.

There is currently no cause or cure for IBS, and management of this condition focuses on symptom relief.

What are the signs and symptoms of IBS?

Approximately 1 in 6 people experience symptoms of IBS and these can develop at any age, but is usually between the ages of 15 and 40 and it is more common in women than men (3:2).

IBS symptoms can include:

• Abdominal pain – usually occurring in the lower abdomen but can affect the entire abdomen
• Frequent bloating
• Diarrhoea
• Constipation
• A change in bowel movements
• Excess flatulence
• Feeling sick (nausea)
• Stomach gurgles, particularly at night or after meals

What is an irritable bowel syndrome attack?

The intensity and frequency of IBS pain and discomfort can differ between individuals, and for the individual themselves. This can result in varying degrees of IBS pain. An IBS flare-up can last for days, weeks or months at a time, or may come and go sporadically.

Diagnosing IBS

If you suspect you have IBS, it is recommended that you always consult with your medical practitioner, so they can rule out any underlying causes. Once diagnosed, it is normal to ask questions, such as ‘can you outgrow IBS?’ or ‘can IBS be cured?’. Irritable bowel can be frustrating to live with and, depending on the IBS attacks, can impact on day-to-day life.

How to manage IBS?

IBS is often lifelong but there are many treatments available, more so than ever before. Treatment of irritable bowel is largely based on the use of antispasmodics, antidepressants, and medications that modify bowel spasms and habits, depending on whether constipation or diarrhoea is the predominant problem. However, there are also natural remedies for IBS to relieve symptoms.

If your condition persists, it might be a good opportunity to take a closer look at your diet. Many people living with diagnosed IBS often feel as though they have some form of dietary intolerance and frequently try exclusion diets to manage the symptoms of an IBS attack.

How do you test for irritable bowel syndrome?

There’s currently no test for IBS. It’s important to always consult your medical practitioner if you experience any IBS symptoms, so they can rule out any underlying medical conditions. They may also carry out a blood test to check for coeliac disease or take stool sample to check for infections or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

IBS symptoms can be distressing and can interfere with day-to-day life. If you’re taking a closer look at your diet, there’s an easy way to determine if there are any foods which may be contributing to your digestive distress. YorkTest has been providing IgG food sensitivity testing for over 35 years. With a simple finger prick blood test, your IgG results to over 200 food and drink ingredients will show what works for and against your body.